However, the executive order also says the heads of executive departments and agencies may keep certain offices open on Dec. 24 and require certain employees to work “for reasons of national security, defense, or other public need.”

While Christmas Day is a federal holiday, giving federal employees additional time off has been inconsistent for different presidents.

Christmas fell on a Monday last year, but there was no extra day off for workers.

In 2012, former President Barack Obama excused federal employees from duty on Christmas Eve when it fell on a Monday. In 2014, he closed the federal government on the day after Christmas Day. The following year, workers were given a half day on Christmas Eve.

Former President George W. Bush did give workers the day off on Christmas Eve in 2001 and in 2007 when it landed on a Monday.